Gazing Ball, Van Gogh Wheatfield with Crows

Shining Koons


Jeff Koons is one of the world's most established and valuable living artists, and one of the most controversial as well. His work always manages to innovate and provoke, but above all, it never ceases to amaze his audience.

 

Palazzo Strozzi in Florence is currently highlighting the quintessence of his work. Aptly named Shine, the exhibition features more than 30 of his most renowned artworks, loaned by the world's most important museums and private collections.

 

Through Shine, Koons positions the viewer at the centre of his artwork, brilliantly playing with the reflections created by his favorite materials, mirror-polished stainless steel and hand- blown glass. "The job of the artist is to make a gesture and really show people what their potential is,” says Koons. “It's not about the object, and it's not about the image, it's about the viewer. That's where the art happens.”

 

If you don't have the chance to travel to Florence, we would be delighted to show you his work in our galleries in Paris and Miami, particularly his stunning Gazing Ball collection, one we particularly treasure, also in the spotlight at the Palazzo Strozzi. By including a blue glass ball in masterpieces like Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Klimt’s Kiss, or Monet ’s Water Lilies, to mention just a few, Koons masterly combines classical art and pop culture with great ability.

 

As always, Koons continues to challenge our relationship with reality, calling into question our conception of art.

 

For More Information: Palazzo Strozzi

Jeff Koons Shine 02 October 2021- 30 January 2022